Supplemental shunting device indicator

ABSTRACT

A supplemental shunting device indicator (SSDI) for use with respect to a shunting device for a railroad. The SSDI comprises a housing. The housing comprises a light, a clamp for surrounding at least a portion of the shunting device, a power supply, and a current-sensing switch configured to electrically connect the power supply and the light in response to detection of a current.

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/720,381, filed Sep. 29, 2017, which claims priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/404,532, filed Oct. 5, 2016, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Shunting devices are used on railroad tracks to indicate that a section of track is not usable or otherwise out of service. The shunting device electrically connects one rail to another short-circuiting one or more signals being sent down the rail(s) from one rail to another and thereby providing a signal to a controller that indicates the rail is either in use or out of service.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying figures. It is noted that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a supplemental shunting device indicator, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 2 is a high level block diagram of a supplemental shunting device indicator in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of several supplemental shunting device indicators, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a supplemental shunting device indicator in use, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a supplemental shunting device indicator, in accordance with some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of the provided subject matter. Specific examples of components, values, operations, materials, arrangements, or the like, are described below to simplify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. Other components, values, operations, materials, arrangements, or the like, are contemplated. For example, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in which additional features may be formed between the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/or configurations discussed.

Further, spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. The spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. The apparatus may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein may likewise be interpreted accordingly.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a supplemental shunting device indicator (SSDI) 100, in accordance with some embodiments. SSDI 100 uses a signal current in a track circuit to switch on an indicator light and inform persons working in the vicinity that the track is shunted. If a section of track is shunted, the section of track is said to be out of service or otherwise unusable by rail traffic. By indicating that the section of track is shunted, persons in the vicinity of the track section have an increased level and sense of safety knowing that rail traffic are much less likely to be moving into or through the shunted track section.

Housing

SSDI 100 comprises a housing 102 having a light 104 attached thereto. Housing 102 is cylindrically-shaped. In at least some embodiments, housing 102 is parallel-piped-shaped. In some embodiments, housing 102 has a shape other than cylindrical or parallel-piped. In at least some embodiments, housing 102 is a right circular cylinder. In some embodiments, housing 102 is made of metal, plastic, or another rigid material or the like.

Housing 102 has a flat base at a lower end of the cylinder enabling the cylinder to be set on a flat surface with light 104 at the opposite end of the flat base. In some embodiments, light 104 and housing base are at the same end of the housing 102. In some embodiments, the flat base of housing 102 includes one or more magnets enabling the housing to be magnetically attached to a magnetic surface, e.g., a rail of a section of track.

In some embodiments, SSDI 100 housing 102 is approximately 2 inches in diameter at the base and approximately 4 inches in height. In some embodiments, housing 102 diameter ranges from 1 inch to 3 inches. In some embodiments, housing 102 diameter is larger or smaller than 3 inches in diameter. In some embodiments, housing 102 diameter is larger or smaller than 1 inches in diameter. In some embodiments, housing 102 height ranges from 2 inches to 6 inches. In some embodiments, housing 102 height is larger or smaller than 2 inches. In some embodiments, housing 102 height is larger or smaller than 6 inches.

Light

Housing 102 has light 104 attached at one end of the cylindrical housing. In at least one embodiment, light 104 is attached at the lower end of the cylinder forming the housing. Light 104 is configured to illuminate in response to a current flow being detected by SSDI 100. In some embodiments, light 104 is a blinking or strobe light providing an indication that the shunt device is working properly. In some embodiments, light 104 comprises more than one light. In some embodiments, light 104 comprises two or more different color lights. In at least one embodiment, light 104 is an orange light.

In some embodiments, light 104 is approximately 2 inches in diameter at the base and approximately 2 inches in height. In some embodiments, light 104 diameter and/or height ranges from 1 inch to 3 inches. In some embodiments, light 104 diameter and/or height is larger or smaller than 2 inches.

In some embodiments, housing 102 comprises a speaker 106 (not shown) or other similar mechanism for generating an audible sound or vibration perceptible to a person. In some embodiments, housing 102 comprises both light 104 and a speaker 106.

Power Supply

Housing 102 has a power supply 103 stored therein, e.g., one or more batteries or energy storage devices or the like. In some embodiments, housing 102 is connectable to an external power supply or mains. Power supply 103 is connectable to light 104 via current-sensing switch 112 in order to provide power to cause the light to illuminate.

Clamp

Housing 102 also comprises a clamp 108 for retaining SSDI 100 attached to at least a portion of shunt device 110. In some embodiments, clamp 108 forms an integral part of housing 100. In some embodiments, clamp 108 is a separate piece attachable to housing 100 and/or power supply 103. In some embodiments, clamp 108 is removably attached around shunt device 110. In some embodiments, clamp 108 is fixedly attached around shunt device 110. In some embodiments, clamp 108 has an opening formed therein of at least ¾ inch in diameter to be able to surround at least a portion of shunt device 110. In some embodiments, clamp 108 has an opening 114 formed therein ranging in diameter from ½ inch to 1 inch. In some embodiments, opening 114 ranges in diameter from ¼ inch to 2 inches. In at least some embodiments, opening 114 is variable in diameter. Opening 114 is sized to enable attachment of SSDI 100 to shunt device 110 in order to enable the current-sensing switch 112 to detect a current flow in the shunt device. Sizing opening 114 to be closer to the thickness of the shunt device 110 portion being detected improves the ability to detect the current flow. In at least some embodiments, clamp 108 is comprised of a conductive material and forms an integral part of current-sensing switch 112.

Shunt Device

In at least some embodiments, shunt device 110 comprises an electrically conductive cable having a connector at each end. The connectors are configured to be attached to a corresponding rail of a section of track, i.e., one connector is coupled to one rail and the other connector is coupled to the other rail, causing the shunt device 110 to short circuit a current across the two rails. The connectors comprise clamps, clips, or other electrically conductive connecting mechanisms or the like. In some embodiments, the connectors are able to be attached and removed from the rails by hand or without the use of tools. In some embodiments, the connectors are able to be connected to another conductive portion of the track, e.g., a tie plate. In some embodiments, shunt device 110 comprises the cable electrically connecting the rails to each other without the use of the connectors. In at least some embodiments, shunt device 110 and SSDI 100 are integrated such that SSDI 100 is not removable from shunt device 110.

Current-Sensing Switch

Clamp 108 also internally includes a current-sensing switch 112 (not shown) positioned to detect a current level in shunt device 110 around which the clamp is affixed. In some embodiments, current-sensing switch 112 is internal to housing 102.

Current-sensing switch 112 is electrically connected between power supply 103 and light 104. Current-sensing switch 112 is configured to electrically connect power supply 103 and light 104 after sensing a current value exceeding a predetermined threshold current value in shunt device 110. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold current value is 1.5 Amps.

In at least some embodiments, light 104 is initially in an off-state cut off from receiving power from power supply 103 and not providing illumination. In response to switch 112 detecting a current flow through the shunt device 110, switch 112 electrically connects power supply 103 and light 104 causing light 104 to illuminate. In a given scenario, light 104 is not illuminated and then after shunt device 110 is connected to track circuit 200 shunting the signal across the rails and through the shunt device, switch 112 detects the current flow comprising the signal and causes light 104 to illuminate.

In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold current value is greater or less than 1.5 Amps. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold current value ranges from 0.5 Amps to 3 Amps. In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold current value is 6 Amps. In some embodiments, current-sensing switch 112 is configured to detect a current pulse in a range from 100 Hz to 250 Hz. In some embodiments, current-sensing switch 112 is configured to detect a greater or lesser frequency of the current pulse. In some embodiments, current-sensing switch 112 sensitivity, i.e., either or both of the predetermined threshold current value or the frequency, is adjustable.

In some embodiments, current-sensing switch 112 includes a current sensor for detecting the presence of an electric current in at least a portion of shunt device 110. In some embodiments, current-sensing switch 112 is configured to detect a current flow in a cable of shunt device 110. In at least some embodiments, at least the current sensing portion of current-sensing switch 112 surrounds the entirety of the cable of shunt device 110. In at least some embodiments, at least the current sensing portion of current-sensing switch 112 surrounds at least a portion of the cable of shunt device 110. Current-sensing switch 112 includes one or more of a Hall effect sensor, an inductive sensor, a magnetoresistive sensor or other similar current sensor types. In response to the current sensor detecting a current flow through the shunt device 110, switch 112 electrically connects power supply 103 and light 104 causing light 104 to illuminate.

In at least one embodiment, light 104 is initially in an on-state receiving power from power supply 103 and providing illumination and in response to switch 112 detecting a current flow through the shunt device 110, switch 112 electrically disconnects power supply 103 and light 104 causing light 104 to be extinguished.

A working track circuit comprises two rails and a signal is transmitted along the rails to provide a capability to detect use/occupancy of the rails. In another way, the presence of a signal along a rail is usable as an indication of the absence of a train on the tracks. That is, a train on the rails would cause a signal to short across the rails indicating presence of the train. In the same manner, if work is being performed on/near a track, a shunt or shunting device 110 is used to short the signal across the rails indicating the rail is in use by workers to assist in avoiding accidents. In at least some embodiments, workers on the rails are able to know in real time if the track is properly shunted based on whether the SSDI is illuminated.

Because there is normally current or a signal pulse in a working track circuit, SSDI 100 provides an indication, i.e., light 104 is on or flashing, if current is detected passing through shunt device 110. If no current is detected, SSDI 100 will not illuminate or provide an indication of shunt. In at least some embodiments, the SSDI 100 only illuminates if it detects current passing through shunting device 110. In at least some embodiments, the illumination comprises a strobed or blinking light. In at least one embodiment, SSDI 100 uses a battery operated strobe light that is activated by a current switch 112.

In some embodiments, SSDI 100 causes light 104 to illuminate in a particular pattern. In some embodiments, SSDI 100 causes light 104 to illuminate in a particular pattern determined based on the type of signal detected flowing through the shunt device 110.

SSDI 100 blinks when current is detected. In some embodiments, SSDI 100 sounds an audible alarm with loss of signal, i.e., loss of detection of a current, using speaker 106.

In some embodiments, housing 102 also comprises a magnet for attaching SSDI 100 to a rail or plate attached to/proximate a rail. In some embodiments, housing 102 also comprises a clip or other attachment mechanism for connecting SSDI 100 to a rail or other fixture, e.g., a tie-plate.

FIG. 2 is a high level block diagram of a supplemental shunting device indicator 100 in accordance with some embodiments. SSDI 100 comprises current switch 112 electrically connected between power supply 103 and light 104. As described above, while current switch 112 detects a current flowing through shunt device 110, the switch connects power from power supply 103 to light 104 causing illumination of the light. SSDI also comprises an optional speaker 106 connected with current switch 112. Similar to light 104, while current switch 112 detects a current in shunt device 110, the switch connects power from power supply 103 to speaker 106. In at least some embodiments, speaker 106 is configured to generate a predetermined volume and frequency of sound. In at least some embodiments, speaker 106 is configured to generate a predetermined sound at a predetermined modulation or rhythm.

Further, SSDI 100 is positioned with respect to shunt device 110 to detect the current flow in at least a portion of the shunt device. Shunt device 110 is connected between rails of a track circuit 200. Track circuit 200 comprises two parallel rails on which rail traffic moves and through which a signal is transmitted and detectable by current switch 112.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of several supplemental shunting device indicators 100, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, each worker in a particular region near a shunting device attaches an SSDI to the shunting device 110.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a supplemental shunting device indicator 100 in use, in accordance with some embodiments. SSDI 100 is detecting current flow through shunt device 110. Shunt device 110 connects two rails of track circuit 200.

FIG. 5 is a high-level functional block diagram of an SSDI in combination with a track circuit and shunting device, in accordance with some embodiments. As depicted, a supplemental shunting device (SSD) 110 is deployed across a track circuit 200 electrically connecting one rail to another rail. SSDI 100 is applied to the SSD 110 in order to detect and indicate whether the SSD 110 is properly working. Clamp 108 comprising current-sensing switch 112 surrounds SSD 110 connection of the two rails and causes illumination of the SSDI light 104 based on detection of a current through the SSD 110.

The SSDI 100 is usable to determine if workers present in an area are accounted for prior to removing a shunt device 110. For each worker in a region of track which is shunted, there is a separate SSDI 100 connected to the SSD 110. If a worker places his/her personal SSDI 100 on an SSD 110, the foreman verifies if the worker has cleared the track before removing SSD 110. In some embodiments, the name and/or contact information, e.g., phone number, of the worker to whom SSDI 100 is assigned is written on housing 102 to enable the foreman to determine which worker has not removed their SSDI 100. With such information, the foreman is able to contact the person prior to removing the corresponding SSDI 100 from shunt device 110. Having the worker name and/or contact information, SSDI 100 is usable as a safety warning tag to prevent inadvertent removal of SSDI 100 or shunt device 110 from track circuit 200.

In some embodiments, SSDI 100 is small enough to fit into a pants pocket and to be carried with one hand.

An embodiment of the present invention comprises a supplemental shunting device indicator (SSDI) for use with respect to a shunting device for a railroad. The SSDI comprises a housing. The housing comprises a light, a clamp for surrounding at least a portion of the shunting device, a power supply, and a current-sensing switch configured to electrically connect the power supply and the light in response to detection of a current.

The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments so that those skilled in the art may better understand the aspects of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that they may make various changes, substitutions, and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A supplemental shunting device indicator (SSDI) for use with respect to a shunting device for a railroad, the SSDI comprising: a housing, the housing comprising: a light; a clamp surrounding at least a portion of the shunting device, the shunting device connected between rails of a track circuit, the track circuit comprises two parallel rails for the railroad; a power supply; and a current-sensing switch configured to electrically connect the power supply and the light in response to detection of a current, the current being transmitted upon movement of rail traffic on the two parallel rails.
 2. The SSDI of claim 1, wherein the housing further comprises a magnet for attaching the SSDI to a rail.
 3. The SSDI of claim 1, wherein the light is configured to strobe in response to being electrically connected to the power supply.
 4. The SSDI of claim 1, wherein the current-sensing switch is an integral part of the clamp.
 5. The SSDI of claim 1, wherein the current-sensing switch is configured to cause the light to strobe in response to being electrically connected to the power supply.
 6. The SSDI of claim 1, wherein the current-sensing switch is configured to cause the light to illuminate in a predetermined pattern in response to a particular content of the current detected.
 7. The SSDI of claim 1, wherein the current-sensing switch is configured to detect current equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold current value.
 8. The SSDI of claim 1, wherein the current-sensing switch is configured to detect current less than a predetermined threshold current value.
 9. The SSDI of claim 1, wherein the power supply is one or more batteries.
 10. The SSDI of claim 1, further comprising a speaker electrically connected with the current-sensing switch, and wherein the current-sensing switch is further configured to electrically connect the power supply and the speaker in response to detection of the current.
 11. The SSDI of claim 10, wherein the current-sensing switch is configured to cause the speaker to generate sound at a predetermined frequency in response to the current detected.
 12. The SSDI of claim 10, wherein the current-sensing switch is configured to cause the speaker to generate sound at a predetermined modulation in response to the current detected.
 13. A supplemental shunting device indicator (SSDI) for use with respect to a shunting device for a railroad, the SSDI comprising: a housing, the housing comprising: a speaker; a clamp surrounding at least a portion of the shunting device, the shunting device connected between rails of a track circuit, the track circuit comprises two parallel rails for the railroad; a power supply; and a current-sensing switch configured to electrically connect the power supply and the speaker in response to detection of a current, the current being transmitted upon movement of rail traffic on the two parallel rails.
 14. The SSDI of claim 13, wherein the current-sensing switch is configured to cause the speaker to generate sound at a predetermined frequency in response to the current detected.
 15. The SSDI of claim 13, wherein the current-sensing switch is configured to cause the speaker to generate sound at a predetermined modulation in response to the current detected.
 16. The SSDI of claim 13, further comprising a light electrically connected with the current-sensing switch, and wherein the current-sensing switch is further configured to electrically connect the power supply and the light in response to detection of the current.
 17. The SSDI of claim 16, wherein the light is configured to strobe in response to being electrically connected to the power supply.
 18. A method of using a supplemental shunt device indicator (SSDI) on a shunting device for a railroad, the SSDI comprising a housing having a light, a clamp surrounding at least a portion of the shunting device, a power supply, and a current-sensing switch configured to electrically connect the power supply and the light in response to detection of a current, the current being transmitted upon movement of rail traffic on two parallel rails, the method comprising: attaching a shunting device between rails of a track circuit, the track circuit comprises the two parallel rails for the railroad; and attaching the SSDI to the shunting device.
 19. The method of using the SSDI of claim 18, further comprising: for each worker working in a region near the shunting device, attaching one SSDI per each worker to the shunting device.
 20. The method of using the SSDI of claim 19, further comprising: removing each SSDI attached to the shunting device from the shunting device after verifying that a corresponding worker has left the region near the shunting device. 